hikes in South Downs

Looking for some of the best walks near London, England? Then you'll want to explore the South Downs National Park in Sussex. The South Downs has great walks, and take in everything from rugged coastline, rolling countryside, charming villages and most of all, exquisite views.

We love walking in the South Downs. From gentle walks through the picturesque village of East Meon, to steep ascents up the Beachy Head coastline, the South Downs is a great option for walkers of all abilities. Best of all, if you're looking for a walk near London, the South Downs has excellent public transport, so a daytrip or weekend break from London can be quick and easy.

Walking in the South Downs can be great year-round, though some walks in winter can get a bit muddy. Check out our favourite walks in the South Downs below.

THE TOP 10 WALKS IN THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK, ENGLAND

1. Temple of the Winds (3.2km, 21m, 1h): The Temple of the Winds walk is a short, relatively flat trail, and it is an absolute must do for all walkers in the Sussex area, regardless of ability. From the stone bench seat halfway through the walk, you’re rewarded with some of the best views the South Downs have to offer. Lord Tennyson himself was said to have spent hours in this spot composing his poems, and once you reach the bench you’ll want to stay too.
2. East Dean, Beachy Head and Birling Gap (15.0km, 314m, 5-6h): One of the finest walks in SE england, the walk from East Dean takes in Beachy Head and Birling Gap. This challenging South Downs walk goes through dramatic landscapes that change every time you look around. The immense winds along the Beachy Head coastline will leave you invigorated for the final couple of miles. Just remember to hold on to your hat!
3. Glynde and Mount Caburn (10.5km, 277m, 3-4h): The Glynda and Mount Caburn walk is a classic South Downs walk. Hike along an undulating trail from the quaint village of Glynde up to the top of Mount Caburn. From this high, South Downs vista, walkers are rewarded with spectacular views and stunning scenery. After Mount Caburn, the trail goes across the Lewes golf course and over Saxon Cross.
4. Amberley and the River Arun (13.4km, 247m, 3-4h): Walking along the River Arun and through Amberley is a must-do South Downs walk. This fantastically varied hike starts by walking alongside the river Arun, before trekking through the historic village of Amberley. It then hikes steeply uphill near Amberley Mount, for incredible views of the surrounding South Downs.
5. East Meon and Butser Hill (8.5km, 140m, 2-3h): The walk from East Meon up to Butser Hill circles the idyllic village of East Meon, starting at the historic 13th century All Saints church. The walk ends with a steep ascent near Butser Hill, the highest point in the South Downs National Park, for some sensational views.
6. Amberley to Shoreham-by-Sea (26.0km, 340m, 7-9h): The walk from Amberley to Shoreham-by-Sea is one of our favourite walks in the South Downs. This long and clearly marked walk hikes along a highly rewarding section of the South Downs Way. It may be long but it’s unique in that it has only a couple of steep climbs. The trail passes the prehistoric hill fort of Chanctonbury Ring, before finally walking to Shoreham-by-Sea, a small, charming coastal town.
7. Arundel Castle and Pubs (13.5km, 187m, 4-5h): Walking to Arundel Castle and exploring the pubs is a South Downs classic. This South Downs hike starts in the delightful town of Arundel before walking alongside the River Arun and then heading uphill into beautiful woodland and countryside. There are plenty of pubs and cafes along the trail, perfect for those who want to rest a little or take their time absorbing the views.
8. Hassocks to Lewes (18.0km, 194m, 5-6h): Walking from Hassocks to Lewes is a wonderful day out in the South Downs. The walk leaves Hassocks and hikes uphill to the Jack and Jill windmills of Clayton. It then follows a relatively flat stretch of the South Downs Way, where hikers can relax and enjoy the panoramic views. The trail finishes along the river Ouse and into the historic town of Lewes, a wonderful place to walk around Lewes Castle.
9. Southease and the River Ouse (9.2km, 83m, 2-3h): This pleasant and quiet walk is a real immersion into quintessential English countryside. Prepare to walk alongside the River Ouse before slowly climbing uphill to be rewarded with far reaching views from the South Downs Way.
10. The Long Man of Wilmington to Alfriston (3.2km, 67m, 1h): This short walk first hikes uphill to view the Long Man of Wilmington, a giant hill figure carved into the hillside. After trekking past the figure, the views become vast and at one point you can even glimpse the ocean glistening in the distance. The walk finishes across the river and past the 14th century church into the picture-perfect village of Alfriston, a popular place to walk around.